Squid sambal is a delicious and flavorful dish that features tender squid cooked in a spicy and tangy sauce. This recipe combines the vibrant flavors of tamarind, paprika, sambal oelek, and aromatic spices to create a mouthwatering sambal sauce. The squid, with its tender texture and delicate flavor, absorbs the flavors of the sauce, resulting in a delightful seafood dish. Serve this squid sambal hot and enjoy the combination of heat, tanginess, and umami flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 tablespoons groundnut oil
- 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp, soaked in 150ml/5fl oz water for 10 minutes
- 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 450g/1lb small squid with tentacles, cleaned
For the spice paste:
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried shrimp paste
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sambal oelek
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh lemongrass
PREPARATIONS:
- Put the ingredients for the spice paste in a blender or food processor and blend until a thick paste is formed.
- Heat the groundnut oil in a large saucepan. Add the spice paste and fry over medium heat for 8 minutes, stirring constantly, until the paste is cooked and lightly golden.
- Strain the soaked tamarind pulp through a sieve, discarding the pulp, and add the strained tamarind liquid to the pan along with the paprika, sugar, and salt. Cook the sambal sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.
- Cut the squid tubes into 2.5cm/1in thick rings and add them, along with the tentacles, to the pan.
- Increase the heat and cook the squid sambal, stirring constantly, for 5-6 minutes or until the squid is cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve the squid sambal hot.
YIELD:
- Serves 4
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Serve the squid sambal hot for the best taste and texture.
- Adjust the spiciness of the dish by adding more or less sambal oelek according to your preference.
- Ensure that the squid is properly cleaned before cooking to remove any sand or impurities.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and results.
TIPS:
- Garnish the squid sambal with fresh cilantro or sliced scallions for added freshness and visual appeal.
- Serve the dish with steamed rice or warm crusty bread to complement the spicy and tangy flavors.
- Experiment with different seafood options like shrimp or mussels in place of squid for a variation in taste.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the sambal for a few more minutes until desired consistency is achieved.
In conclusion, squid sambal is a delightful seafood dish that combines tender squid with a spicy and tangy sambal sauce. The blend of tamarind, paprika, sambal oelek, and aromatic spices creates a flavorful and aromatic sauce that coats the squid perfectly. The squid, with its delicate flavor and tender texture, absorbs the flavors of the sauce, resulting in a mouthwatering dish.
To prepare this squid sambal, blend the ingredients for the spice paste to create a thick paste. Fry the paste in groundnut oil until it is cooked and lightly golden. Then, add the strained tamarind liquid, paprika, sugar, and salt to the pan and cook the sambal sauce over low heat. Add the squid rings and tentacles to the sauce and cook until the squid is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Serve the squid sambal hot and garnish it with fresh cilantro or sliced scallions for added freshness and visual appeal. Accompany the dish with steamed rice or warm crusty bread to enjoy the full flavors of the spicy and tangy sauce.
Whether you’re a fan of spicy seafood dishes or looking to explore new flavors, squid sambal is a delicious choice. So gather the ingredients, follow the preparations carefully, and enjoy the spicy and tangy delight of this squid sambal.
